Stuffed Fried Tofu

Stuffed Fried Tofu Recipe from China | Rice, Tofu, Cornstarch, Peanut Oil

Region / culture: China | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stuffed Fried Tofu is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the crispy texture of fried tofu with a savory and seasoned rice filling. This dish is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option that is still packed with protein and flavor.

History

The origins of Stuffed Fried Tofu are not entirely clear, but tofu has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. Tofu is made from soybeans and is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. The idea of stuffing tofu with rice or other fillings likely originated as a way to add more flavor and texture to the dish.

Ingredients

1 cup of cooked highly seasoned rice,
such as Cajun Jambalaya Mix
4 cakes of fresh tofu
cornstarch or flour (for dusting)
3 to 4 tbsp of peanut oil
Hot oil or mustard, for a dipping sauce

How to prepare

Cook the rice. If using the Jambalaya Mix, add the contents of the package with 1 tbsp of olive oil and 3 cups of water to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes, then on half power for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Allow it to cool.
Meanwhile, drain the tofu well in a colander and then on paper towels while the rice cooks. Cut each cake diagonally and create a pocket on the cut side. Dust with cornstarch or flour. Fill the pocket with some of the rice mixture and pack it smoothly using a knife or your fingers.
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or wok. Once the oil is hot enough to give off a haze, place the side of the tofu cake down into the oil and pan-fry over medium heat for about 6 minutes. Flip the cakes and fry the other side for 2 minutes.
Serve hot with a nice sauce drizzled over the top.

Variations

Try using different types of seasoned rice mixtures for the filling, such as Spanish rice or wild rice.
Add diced vegetables or tofu to the rice filling for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tofu well before cutting and stuffing it to ensure that it cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

- Use a flavorful and highly seasoned rice mixture to add depth of flavor to the dish.

- Be careful when frying the tofu, as it can splatter hot oil. Use a splatter guard if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Fried Tofu can be served as a main dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It can also be served as an appetizer or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-frying the tofu gives it a crispy texture while still keeping it tender on the inside.

- Make sure to cook the tofu over medium heat to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tofu, you can use firm or extra-firm tofu instead.

- You can use any type of cooking oil in place of peanut oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. The tofu can also be stuffed and refrigerated until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Stuffed Fried Tofu on a platter with a drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of chopped herbs or green onions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Stuffed Fried Tofu pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy. It also goes well with a side of jasmine rice or noodles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Stuffed Fried Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tofu in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Stuffed Fried Tofu contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Stuffed Fried Tofu contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Stuffed Fried Tofu contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Stuffed Fried Tofu contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium. The rice filling can also provide vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (tofu) and gluten (flour). It may also contain other allergens depending on the specific ingredients used.

Summary

Stuffed Fried Tofu is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in calories. It is a great option for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan meal that is still satisfying and flavorful.

Summary

Stuffed Fried Tofu is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful rice filling, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Stuffed Fried Tofu. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Anna in her cozy little kitchen. Anna was known for her culinary skills, and I always loved learning new recipes from her.

On that particular day, Anna greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today," she said, as she handed me a plate of golden-brown tofu cubes. "These are my famous Stuffed Fried Tofu. I think you'll love them."

I took a bite of the tofu, and my taste buds were instantly delighted. The tofu was crispy on the outside and filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and spices on the inside. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

"Anna, this is incredible!" I exclaimed. "Please, teach me how to make this dish."

Anna chuckled and patted my hand. "Of course, my dear. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother before her. It's been passed down through generations, and now I'm passing it on to you."

And so, Anna graciously shared her recipe for Stuffed Fried Tofu with me that day. She showed me how to prepare the tofu, how to make the filling, and how to fry it to perfection. As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but marvel at the way she effortlessly combined ingredients and flavors to create a truly delicious dish.

After that day, I made Stuffed Fried Tofu for my family and friends whenever I could. It quickly became a favorite among my loved ones, and I found so much joy in sharing Anna's recipe with others.

Years passed, and I continued to make Stuffed Fried Tofu, always thinking of Anna and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking. I experimented with different variations of the recipe, adding my own twist here and there, but the core of the dish remained the same – crispy tofu stuffed with a flavorful filling.

As time went on, I met new people and traveled to different places, each one adding a unique element to my culinary repertoire. I learned new techniques and discovered new ingredients, but Stuffed Fried Tofu remained a constant in my cooking repertoire.

One day, I had the pleasure of dining at a small family-owned restaurant in a quaint little village. The aroma of sizzling tofu wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. I eagerly ordered the dish, curious to see how it compared to Anna's version.

When the Stuffed Fried Tofu arrived at my table, I couldn't believe my eyes. It was a masterpiece – the tofu was perfectly crispy, and the filling was bursting with flavor. I savored every bite, relishing in the familiar taste that brought back memories of my time with Anna.

After finishing my meal, I approached the chef and complimented him on his delicious dish. To my surprise, he smiled and said, "Thank you, but I can't take all the credit. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother before her. It's been passed down through generations."

I was overcome with emotion, realizing that the recipe for Stuffed Fried Tofu had traveled far and wide, touching the lives of countless people along the way. It was a testament to the power of food and the connections we form through cooking and sharing meals with others.

And so, I continue to make Stuffed Fried Tofu to this day, always remembering the moment I discovered the recipe and the special bond I shared with Anna. It's a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and love that can be found in a simple meal shared with loved ones.